Converge
Converge
In association with the Institute for Social Justice.
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Autumn term Open Day
Wednesday 3 September
Drop in between 1.00pm and 4.00pm
Quad South Hall, York St John University
Open days are an opportunity to meet the Converge staff, find out more about our courses, and receive support to complete an application form.
You do not need to sign up to attend.
We provide courses for adults who use mental health services. Our courses help you develop skills in a supportive educational environment. You have the freedom to be creative, challenge yourself and discover new abilities.
Most courses take place at York St John University. Courses are taught by staff, students and people with particular expertise and their own experience of mental ill health. We also offer some courses online and by post.
Converge is a partnership between York St John University and mental health service providers. Find out more in our introductory video.
Awards
Community Engagement Award Winners at the Educate North Awards 2025
Our courses
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Art and Design
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Creative writing
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Music
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Theatre and performance
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Social science and study skills
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Online and postal courses
Converge characteristics
Characteristic 1: Students, Not Service Users
As far as possible, Converge participants are regarded as students and not as patients or service users.
Characteristic 2: Education, Not Therapy
We offer educational opportunities and focus on the subject. For example, theatre, creative writing, or research methods - not on mental health.
Characteristic 3: The University Campus
Our research has shown us the value of Converge taking place in a university; universities are places of aspiration and hope.
Characteristic 4: Involvement of University Students
We involve university students in the delivery of the courses, the support for people who attend, and in our evaluation and research.
Characteristic 5: Research and Evaluation
We are committed to participatory research in which people who have experienced mental ill health can play in a central role in internal and external evaluations.
Our work with the community
Our history
Find out about the history of Converge and our work to improve access to educational opportunities.
Converge Evaluation and Research Team (CERT)
We offer bespoke evaluations of mental health services and community projects.
Student volunteering
Students from YSJ can volunteer with Converge as participants or in a leadership role.
Foss Park Arts
Our work on the arts strategy at Foss Park mental health hospital in York.
Our partnerships
We work with local, national and international partners to provide rich educational opportunities.
Publications
Access the latest publications and research articles related to Converge.
